Developing empathy can backfire and feel unnatural at first. Learn time-tested strategies to grow genuine understanding while staying true to yourself. Real change takes work.
The story
Learning to practice empathy hits different when you actually try it. Trust me – after 30 years of working with people, I’ve seen how it can make things awkward and even harder before they get better.
Here’s what usually happens: You start using Practical Empathy Practice [PEP], but the people around you aren’t on the same page. You’re there trying to slow down and really listen, while they’re wondering why you’re suddenly acting different. Sometimes they might even think you’re being fake or manipulative. Not fun.
I’ve noticed something interesting – as you get better at empathy, you become more aware of when others aren’t being empathetic. It can be draining, especially when you start seeing relationship issues you used to brush off.
And let’s be real about authenticity. If being blunt comes naturally to you, does becoming more empathetic mean you’re not being yourself? I’ve wrestled with this question a lot.
Here’s what I’ve learned: empathy isn’t some quick fix you can master overnight. It’s more like rewiring your brain – it takes time and practice. But there are ways to work through these challenges.
That’s exactly why I wrote Chapter 2 of “A Practical EmPath: Rewire Your Mind.” I break down these struggles and share exercises that help you develop empathy naturally, without burning yourself out or compromising who you are.
The goal isn’t to perform empathy – it’s to genuinely grow into a more understanding person. If you’re ready to make that change, I’d love to show you how.
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